Friday, October 27, 2006

Paper Dolls for Me

You've seen the lesser detailed photos of all those glorious paper dolls, but there was just no way to keep the swap somewhat orderly and get good detailed photos of all the work. Each participant interpreted so differently, and the detail and thought that went into the dolls was really very special.

What I can show you are the three I kept for myself. Each unique and each very special, as were all the dolls -- this was an absolutely delightful swap to host, as I could send each and every one with pride and delight. The ones I kept came from Saundra James, Jenny Rohrs, and Anne Chafee. Anne submitted six dolls (it was a 3 for 3 swap) and each were made in a similar style. They were made from advertising cards that she picked up while visiting France. It seems the parades of acting troupes, advertising their show, hand out these cards -- brightly colored and nicely finished -- and people just toss them away, so Anne gathered them up and used them for the bodies of the dolls. She also used paint chips for hands, feet, and heads, and a supply of vintage junk jewelry for the arms and legs. Very clever.

Saundra's doll was done as a grommet doll, with stamped papers and loads of artistic detail. Saundra had these so well packaged within the cellophane bags, I hated to take them out to photo, so I didn't know exactly what I was getting, but I loved the body shape. This is such a pretty doll. Here it is:

Jenny sent three similar Spring themed dolls. I haven't confirmed this with her yet, but I think the pouffy skirts are dyed coffee filters. There's stamping, embossing, vellum and all kinds of good "stuff."

3 comments:

They ARE lovely! My favorite is the last one! You know, it's wild how paper dolls have once again become the rage, only THIS time with doll artists. I guess it follows that quote about all things old being new again! LOVE THAT!

Wow! As a guy who remembers a brief period in life at around age 7 or 8 playing with paper dolls and the clothing that had the little tabs, I am amazed at this level of creativity and beauty. Wonderful pieces of art.

About Me

I’m an incredibly fortunate Baby Boomer. My life has been filled with joy, challenges, and learning opportunities. My three adult children, their spouses, my beautiful granddaughters, and my amusing pets all color my life. (Though no one is more colorful or amusing than my dear husband, Oldtimer!) My childhood was unusual and my parents unique (Lolo was an astrologer before most people knew what that was; Hawkshaw a WWII vet who lost both legs), which, combined with enough moves to put me in nine different schools in 12 years, gives a different perspective on life experiences.
In my spare time, I work in my "tree house" of sewing and art projects (now on the ground floor, but still amidst greenery and overlooking water), as well as my soap kitchen, where I make beautiful luxury soaps and lotions.
I like to work, love home decor projects, travel eagerly, embrace non-mainstream spirituality, and am grateful for *something* every single day.